The Myth vs. Reality of Model Calorie Intake
For years, public perception has been skewed by rumors of supermodels surviving on little more than lettuce and water. The reality, particularly for the athletic figures seen on the Victoria's Secret runway, is far more complex and demanding. These models are more like athletes than the stereotypical image of a passive, waif-like figure. Their lean, toned physiques are the result of extensive and rigorous training, which requires substantial fuel.
Former Angels like Taylor Hill have famously disclosed consuming up to 3,000 calories a day in the lead-up to a show, a figure she justified by stating, “You can’t look like that and not eat. You will die.”. This higher calorie intake is necessary to support high-intensity workouts like boxing, strength training, and Pilates. The narrative of extreme restriction is largely a myth, although some past practices were concerning, like one model's claim of being put on an 800-calorie diet. The average daily intake for many runway models has been estimated to be between 1,500 and 2,000 calories, which is a far cry from near-starvation diets.
The Role of Intense Training and Nutrition
Victoria's Secret models follow specialized nutrition and fitness plans, often developed with the help of nutritionists, that are centered around fueling their bodies for peak performance. Their approach to food is typically focused on quality, nutrient-dense whole foods rather than strict quantity alone, though this changes in the final days before a show.
Common Dietary Components:
- Lean Proteins: Chicken, salmon, eggs, and lean beef are staples to build and maintain muscle mass.
- Complex Carbohydrates: Quinoa, brown rice, and a wide variety of vegetables are used to provide sustained energy for workouts.
- Healthy Fats: Sources like avocado, nuts, and olive oil are included to support overall health and satiety.
- Fruits: Antioxidant-rich berries and other fruits are consumed, especially outside of the final restrictive phase.
- Hydration: Models emphasize drinking a gallon of water daily to maintain skin health and overall bodily function.
This diet is a tool to achieve a specific aesthetic, and the caloric intake is calculated to support that goal alongside a very demanding exercise schedule. The idea that they achieve their physique through simple dieting is a gross oversimplification that ignores the athletic discipline involved.
Off-Season vs. Pre-Show: The Calorie Comparison
To achieve their final, defined look for the runway, models often adjust their diets drastically in the days leading up to a show. This includes manipulating their intake of carbohydrates and other food groups to reduce bloating and maximize muscle definition. The following table highlights the general differences between a model's typical off-season eating and the more intense pre-show regimen.
| Aspect | Typical Off-Season Diet | Pre-Show Diet (Final Days) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Sustain energy, maintain weight, general health | Eliminate water retention, maximize muscle tone |
| Caloric Range | 1,800-2,500+ calories | Can be restricted to around 1,300 calories or less |
| Carbohydrates | Balanced intake of complex carbs (quinoa, sweet potatoes) | Reduced or eliminated to reduce bloating |
| Protein | Steady, consistent intake of lean protein | Increased focus on lean protein sources |
| Fats | Healthy fats from avocados, nuts, seeds | Still included, but carefully portioned |
| Food Type | Whole foods, balanced meals | Predominantly lean protein shakes, egg whites, low-carb vegetables |
| Sodium | Monitored, but not eliminated | Strictly controlled to reduce water weight |
The Broader Conversation on Model Health
It is crucial to understand that replicating a Victoria's Secret model's diet is not a sustainable or healthy goal for most people. The diet is hyper-specialized and designed for a specific, temporary performance, not long-term health. Studies have documented a heightened prevalence of disordered eating and body image concerns among fashion models, highlighting the mental and physical toll of maintaining such a physique. The constant pressure to achieve and maintain an extremely low body mass index (BMI) can lead to significant health consequences, including psychological distress and eating disorders. Critics argue that the prioritization of a specific, often unhealthy, body ideal over general well-being is a major drawback of this lifestyle. For general health, focusing on a balanced diet rich in whole foods and regular exercise is far more beneficial and realistic. For further context on this issue, read the research on the impact of model imagery on body dissatisfaction.
Conclusion
The number of calories Victoria's Secret models consume is not a singular, low figure but a complex calculation based on their demanding, athlete-like training regimens. While their off-season diets are typically balanced and nutrient-rich, the pre-show phase can involve significant calorie restriction and manipulation for aesthetic purposes. This intensive lifestyle, while achieving a specific look, comes with documented health risks and is not a realistic or recommended approach for the general public seeking overall health and wellness. The key takeaway is that their physique is the result of intense work and highly controlled, often unsustainable, eating patterns, not simple genetics or starvation.
